Key takeaways
Metronidazole (Flagyl) and Cleocin (clindamycin) are both antibiotics, but they have some key differences. Metronidazole (Flagyl) is a nitroimidazole antibiotic taken orally to treat various bacterial and parasitic infections, including trichomoniasis and bacterial vaginosis. It is available as a lower-cost generic. In contrast, Cleocin (clindamycin) is a lincosamide antibiotic used vaginally as a suppository to treat bacterial vaginosis and is only available as a brand-name medication, making it more expensive. Metronidazole (Flagyl) can cause serious interactions with alcohol and has a broader range of side effects, including headache, nausea, and metallic taste. Cleocin (clindamycin) can cause vaginal irritation or lead to vaginal yeast infections and damage to condoms and diaphragms. Additionally, Cleocin (clindamycin) is typically used for a shorter duration (3 days) compared to the varying courses for metronidazole (Flagyl).
